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Washington Irving, often hailed as the Father of American Literature, made significant contributions to the nation's literary scene with works like 'Rip van Winkle' and 'The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.' His life encompassed both personal tragedies and professional successes, with his writing reflecting the landscapes and folklore of early America. Irving's influence extends to the celebration of Christmas in America and the nickname 'Gotham' for New York City.
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Washington Irving's family provided crucial support for his literary pursuits, including funding his travels and backing his early writing ventures
Contributions to Brother's Newspaper and Pseudonym
At the age of 19, Irving began his writing career with contributions to his brother's newspaper under the pseudonym Jonathan Oldstyle
Co-founding "Salmagundi" and Authoring "A History of New-York"
Irving fully embraced literature by co-founding the satirical periodical "Salmagundi" and writing the humorous "A History of New-York from the Beginning of the World to the End of the Dutch Dynasty" as Diedrich Knickerbocker
Despite the death of his fiancée, Irving found solace and success in his writing, with the encouragement of Sir Walter Scott leading to the publication of "The Sketch Book of Geoffrey Crayon, Gent." and the timeless stories "Rip van Winkle" and "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow."
Irving's extended stay in Europe led to significant literary productivity and growth, including the creation of historical accounts such as "A History of the Life and Voyages of Christopher Columbus" and "A Chronicle of the Conquest of Granada."
During his residence in Spain, Irving was inspired by Moorish legends and the rich history of the Alhambra palace, leading to the creation of "Tales of the Alhambra."
Works Inspired by American West and Fur Trade
Irving's travels through the American West inspired works such as "A Tour on the Prairies" and "Astoria," chronicling the burgeoning fur trade
Twilight Years and Last Major Literary Endeavor
Irving's twilight years were spent at his estate in Tarrytown, New York, and serving as a U.S. ambassador to Spain, with his last major literary endeavor being an extensive biography of his namesake, George Washington
Irving is credited with popularizing the nickname "Gotham" for New York City and indirectly contributing to the naming of the New York Knicks through his Knickerbocker character
Irving's tales, especially "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow," have immortalized the folklore of the Hudson River Valley, and he also played a pivotal role in advocating for copyright protection
Irving's essays helped shape the celebration of Christmas in America, and his body of work stands as a testament to his pivotal role as a foundational figure in American literature and culture